Calling all bat experts! Help me identify this cheapie!!

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Posted By: Shawn Chambers

Hey guys,

I'm always reading this forum and appreciate viewing your collections. I have only a very modest memorabilia collection...yeah, it's my wallet's fault!!

About 10 years ago at a yard sale, I bought 2 Louisville Slugger little league bats...a Mantle and an Aaron and this generic guy pictured:

My camera is crappy, but it reads "Pennant Winner - Home Run King". I assume it is 60s and cheap because it sure feels like it!! It is 26 inches and incredibly less than 12 ounces!! Lightest bat I think I've ever held.

Just wondering what store might have carried this or the manufacturer.

Any thoughts...

Thanks for all your help and keep the posts coming...means a lot to me to come home from a hard day of work and drool over some killer collections online!

Shawn

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Posted By: Mike H

Shawn, There are many possible sources for your bat including sporting goods, hardware, and department stores. It isn't stamped by a major manufacturer and is made for a child (under 33-34")so it would be difficult to track down exactly who made it and who sold it. Old catalogs could answer your questions, but that would take a lot of effort. Your bat has a nice patina to it and looks to be in great shape. Good luck and sorry I couldn't be of greater assistance.

Also, don't be concerned about how your collection compares from a $ perspective. This hobby is about buying what YOU love and learning through other collectors. There will always be others with greater resources, but that doesn't always translate into greater enjoyment or appreciation of the hobby. Post away!

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Posted By: John Harrell

Shawn,

Mike is right. Your bat is likely from the 50's or 60's. Many of these types of generic bats were made as promo or give-away items with purchases. It was common at that time for companies to have these bats made up for that purpose. Shoe stores, sporting goods stores, and may other types of businesses used this to draw customers, especially those with children. I can't see the whole bat but yours looks like a nice example. It, obviously, was meant as a child's bat due to length and weight.

John